What are the responsibilities and job description for the Camp Senior Counselor - Hays Camp position at CENTRAL CONNECTICUT COAST YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION INC?
The Senior Camp Counselor plays a key role in creating a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for campers. This seasonal position supports the YMCA’s mission by supervising a group of campers and junior staff, facilitating engaging activities, and fostering positive relationships. The Senior Counselor ensures a safe and supportive atmosphere by following YMCA policies, managing schedules, upholding behavior expectations, and communicating with families as needed. This role helps inspire and guide campers’ growth throughout the summer experience.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Models the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all interactions with campers, families, and staff.
- Provides direct supervision of a camper group, maintaining a positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment.
- Supports and coaches junior counselors with daily routines, camper engagement strategies, and behavior expectations, escalating concerns as needed.
- Assists camp leadership in implementing schedules, transitions, and activities; helps prepare materials and ensures readiness of program spaces.
- Builds positive relationships with parents/caregivers; supports day-to-day communication as directed (drop-off/pick-up updates, routine needs, concerns).
- Uses positive behavior guidance and de-escalation strategies; documents and communicates significant incidents per camp procedures.
- Maintains active supervision at all times (visual/auditory awareness, positioning, head counts, and engagement), and remains alert to surroundings.
- Ensures camp areas, equipment, and supplies are clean, organized, and used safely; reports hazards or maintenance needs promptly.
- Follows YMCA policies, emergency procedures, and mandated reporting/abuse-prevention protocols, including the Rule of Three; responds immediately to emergencies and completes required reports.
- Completes required attendance, headcounts, incident/accident documentation, and other daily paperwork; attends all mandatory meetings and trainings.